NHL trade rumors: Insider drops bombshell update on $68,000,000 Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad's trade out of New York

The NY Rangers may be on the verge of significant roster changes as they struggle at the bottom of the Metro Division this season.

A report from the New York Post suggested that the team has "quit on their coach," raising concerns about the job security of head coach Peter Laviolette. Along with a potential coaching shakeup, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that GM Chris Drury is actively exploring trade options.

Defenseman K'Andre Miller is reportedly among those names floating in trade discussions, while forwards Chris Kreider, Reilly Smith and Sam Carrick are also available on the market. Additionally, veteran forward Mika Zibanejad, who holds a full no-movement clause, might be open to waiving it for the right situation.

The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta reported that Zibanejad would consider a move if the environment suits him, although it remains unclear whether any discussions have taken place about potential destinations.

Pagnotta reported on Monday (via TFP):

"Citing a source close to the Rangers, Zibanejad would be open to waiving his NMC for the right environment. It is unclear, however, if the Rangers and Zibanejad have discussed which teams he would accept a move to, but that conversation could come if Drury finds the right fit."

Friedman also reported that Mika Zibanjead could be a key player on the trading block for the Rangers, potentially signaling a significant shift in the team's roster.

The Blueshirts signed Zibanejad to an eight-year, $68 million contract in 2021. His contract expires at the end of the 2029-30 season. This season, the 31-year-old has recorded 21 points through six goals and 15 assists in 36 games.

NY Rangers drop points to Florida Panthers

On Monday, the NY Rangers suffered a disappointing 5-3 loss to the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena.

This defeat marked the sixth loss for the Blueshirts in their last seven games. The Rangers concluded the year with a record of 16-19-1, placing them at the bottom of the Metro Division.

"That’s where it’s at right now, we did enough to win the game, we did enough to lose the game,” Laviolette said postgame (via NHL.com).

“It is frustrating because you feel that you are doing more good than bad out there. At the end of the day, it’s not the showing on the scoreboard. That’s the business, it’s winning. Not good enough."

The Rangers will look to get back to winning ways when they face the Boston Bruins in their first game of 2025. The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET.